PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE IV

Responsibilities

• Collaborates with local hospitals and private providers to deliver education on Tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and treatment in accordance with Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Standards of Disease Management (SDO).
• Maintains clear, accurate, and timely documentation of all encounters and consultations with approved TB experts and TB providers.
• Provides telephonic case management as required by the Bureau of Tuberculosis Control under general supervision.
• Delivers comprehensive, holistic nursing care across health centers, patients’ homes, and correctional facilities.
• Coordinates and manages nursing care by developing, implementing, and maintaining complete and accurate case management plans for assigned patients.
• Assists patients in carrying out care activities in accordance with established case management plans.
• Collects bacteriological specimens and blood samples; monitors laboratory results; ensures appropriate follow‑up, treatment coordination, and patient education.
• Provides TB‑related education to patients, internal staff, and external partners.
• Administers, reads, and interprets Tuberculosis screening tests (Mantoux and Interferon Gamma Release Assays) and conducts clinical assessments to determine appropriate follow‑up and referrals.
• Triages patient medications and monitors for adverse reactions or side effects.
• Applies nursing judgment and the nursing process to assess, intervene, and refer patients in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Makes appropriate referrals for additional medical, behavioral health, or social services as indicated.
• Travels between work sites using a personal or City‑issued vehicle; must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license in compliance with City of Houston Administrative Policy 2‑2.

Working Conditions

• Occasional stooping or bending.
• Very light lifting (up to 20 lb or equivalent, e.g., three or four reams of paper).
• Exposure to less‑than‑optimal temperature and air conditions.
• Potential exposure to office chemicals and extensive use of a video display terminal.

Qualifications

• Education: Graduation from an accredited school of nursing; Bachelor of Science in Nursing preferred. A Master of Science in Nursing may substitute for two years of experience.
• Experience: Minimum three (3) years of registered nursing experience.
• Licensure: Active Texas Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• Certifications: Current CPR certification; both RN license and CPR certification must be maintained for continued employment.

Preferences

• Preference given to eligible veteran applicants who meet the qualifications.
• Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (40 hours). Must be able to work a flexible schedule including some evenings and weekends as required by the agency.

Pay

Pay Grade 24. Salary is determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Safety Impact

This position is subject to random drug testing. If promoted into the position, the employee must pass an assigned drug test.